Vegan Happy Hour Tour

Thinking about exploring Sicily’s Ortigia island with a twist? The Vegan Happy Hour Tour promises a focus on 100% vegan treats—from artisanal chocolates to luscious vegan cheeses—paired with excellent local beverages. It’s a small-group experience designed for curious travelers who want an authentic, tasty, and intimate introduction to Sicilian vegan delights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized approach led by Tonia, a passionate and knowledgeable guide who’s been vegan for over 17 years. Second, the quality and authenticity of the stops—particularly the chocolate and cheese tastings—showcase some of the best vegan offerings Ortigia has to offer. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour is quite short—just about two hours—so it’s best seen as a flavor-packed introduction rather than a full meal experience.

This tour suits travelers eager to try vegan treats on a picturesque island, those interested in local food pairings, and visitors who appreciate small, intimate groups. If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to learn about Sicily’s vegan scene without committing to a full restaurant dinner, this might be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Exclusive small-group experience with a maximum of six people ensures personalized attention.
• Expert-led tastings of vegan dark chocolates and housemade vegan cheeses paired with local drinks.
• Authentic Sicilian flavors: locally made vermouths, vegan cheeses, and chocolates.
• Flexible timing for dinner reservations at the final stop, MOON, for those wanting to extend their evening.
• Ideal for non-vegans curious about vegan cuisine and tasting local treats.
• Cost-effective at around $91.45, offering quality tastings and expert guidance in a short time.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sabadì – The Chocolate Haven

The tour kicks off at Sabadì, a well-regarded vegan-friendly Modica dark chocolate shop. As you step inside, the aroma of rich, dark chocolate immediately signals you’re in for a treat. Tonia greets you here, setting the tone for a warm, friendly experience.

The focus at Sabadì is on locally produced, organic vegan chocolates. You’ll meet Ramona or Chiara, the chocolate and vermouth pairing experts, who will serve you a flight of three vegan vermouths paired perfectly with the chocolates. This pairing is more than just a sweet taste; it’s a lesson in flavor complexity. You’ll learn how the intense, grainy texture of Modica chocolate—famous for its crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth quality—complements the herbal notes of these Sicilian vermouths.

Guests often rave about these tastings. One reviewer, Janet, said, “Ramona described the background of her chocolates and liqueurs very well and the tastes were exquisite.” The chocolates also make great souvenirs or gifts, and there’s plenty of time after the tasting to browse and pick out some favorites.

Stop 2: MOON – The Vegan Aperitivo

From the chocolate shop, the group strolls through narrow, ancient streets of Ortigia, soaking in the island’s charm. The walk itself is a highlight—clad in historic architecture and lively local life—and sets the scene for the next tasting.

At MOON, the final stop, you’ll be treated to the signature Vegan Cheese Board. This is a standout feature—housemade, flavorful vegan cheeses that challenge perceptions of what plant-based cheese can be. Paired with a classic cocktail or glass of wine, it’s a smart way to elevate the experience into a relaxed aperitivo.

The setting at MOON is welcoming, and Tonia is happy to stay for a chat or let you enjoy your evening at your own pace. She also suggests trying dinner there afterward, which can be reserved in advance when booking the tour. Water is included, making it a well-rounded and satisfying experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $91.45 per person, you get alcoholic beverages and snacks—a good value considering the quality of the pairings and intimate group size. The tour doesn’t include dinner, but the option to extend your evening at MOON is a great way to keep the experience going.

Group Size and Logistics

The small size—no more than six participants—means you’ll get personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour starts at 6:00 pm at Sabadì and concludes at MOON, making it an ideal early evening activity. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a leisurely, social experience over large, rushed tours.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

Based on the reviews, knowledgeable guides like Tonia make all the difference. Janet appreciated how well Ramona explained the chocolate and liqueurs, and others enjoyed the delicious vegan tapas at MOON. The quality of the tastings and the stunning views of Ortigia’s streets add to the charm.

The price might seem modest for the value—guided tastings, expert pairing, and intimate group size—especially given the high quality of local products. For a two-hour experience, it offers a lovely glimpse into Sicily’s vegan scene that’s both fun and educational.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for foodies, vegans or vegetarians curious about plant-based options, and travelers who enjoy small-group, interactive outings. It’s also ideal for those wanting a relaxed, cultural experience that combines flavor, history, and local life without the commitment of a full dinner. If your time in Ortigia is limited but you want a memorable, tasty introduction to Sicilian vegan treats, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Happy Hour Tour balances authenticity and quality with a friendly, approachable vibe. You’ll leave with a better understanding of Sicily’s vegan offerings, a few new flavors to savor, and hopefully some ideas for your next culinary adventure. The knowledgeable guide, combined with carefully curated tastings, makes this a worthwhile addition to your itinerary—especially if you appreciate handcrafted chocolates and vegan cheeses paired with local drinks.

This tour offers incredible value for its intimacy, quality, and the chance to experience Ortigia through its delicious vegan lens. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Sicily’s vegan scene without fuss or formality, and who enjoy engaging guides and boutique food experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed on this tour, as it involves alcohol tastings and adult beverages.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and ending at MOON, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as the tour is small and popular. You can also reserve a table for dinner at MOON when booking the tour.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all tastings, alcoholic beverages, and snacks during the tour. Dinner afterward is not included but can be arranged.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It involves a short walk through narrow streets, so some mobility challenges may arise. It’s best to contact the provider directly for specific concerns.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility for travelers.

Overall, the Vegan Happy Hour Tour offers a thoughtful, delicious, and personable introduction to Sicily’s vegan scene. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about plant-based Sicilian flavors, this experience promises an enjoyable and authentic taste of Ortigia with expert guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.